"So you hide away and never tell
You say that darkness knows you well
That lesson of love, all that it was
I need you to see
You've got that power over me, my my
Everything I hold dear is right in those eyes
Got that power over me, my my
The only one I know, the only one on my mind
Got that power over me."
Kevin Gates & Dermot Kennedy "Power"
Nicole
"Tae, are you sure you sent me to the right address?" I asked him, putting the car in park and turning off the ignition.
"Yeah, why?"
"I'm in the parking lot of a sex shop."
"You're at the right place. Come inside."
"Whatâ?" The call ended before I could finish my question. What does this man have me doing this early morning? I got out of my car and slowly walked to the entrance of the store. I entered the building and was immediately greeted by an employee.
"Welcome to Pinky's D*cks and Cl*ts!"
"Thank you." I felt my face turn red. Not only is the name of this place ridiculous, but the way you're bombarded with dildos and vibrators once you come in is crazy. I'll admit some of the lingerie looks cute.
"I'm over here." I turned towards the voice to see Tae waving his arm. I went over to him.
"Oh my God. What are we doing here? This is so weird."
"No it's not. I come in here all the time. Shawn broke our handcuffs so I came to buy a new pair. I thought I should invite you to see what they have here."
"Is he Incredible Hulk or something?"
"He thinks so. I'm sure you'll find something that'll spice things up in the bedroom for you and Kyle. You should put on a little show."
I'll admit I've only had sex with one person before Kyle, so I may not be an expert but I have fantasies and I'm open to trying new things. I mean, things between us are already hot. It wouldn't hurt to make it even better. I'm not going anywhere near a whip though. That sh*t reminds me too much of slavery.
"So you want me to go embarrass myself?"
"That man loves everything you do. You'll be fine. You can even do one of those dance routines from high school."
"Did you forget that I didn't make the team?"
"Them hating *ss h*es were just jealous."
"I don't even like talking about that so let's change the topic of discussion." I won't lie, I was devastated when I found out I didn't get a spot on the dance team.
Dancing was one of those escapes for me. I got picked on a lot in school even when Dewayne was around to protect me. Dancing helped me lose weight and also feel free. I dreamed about taking my dancing to the next level and making a career out of it. I felt like I was a joke when I didn't make the dance team, so it stopped being a passion for me.
It was probably a blessing in disguise because I love the brand I created. But you know how sometimes you reach a certain point in your life when you're happy and successful, you can't help but wonder how it would have turned out if you followed that other path.
I could always try dancing again. I have more confidence in myself now and my body isn't falling apart yet.
"Do you and Shawn ever act out foreplay?"
"All the time. He's been my plumber, doctor, and physician trainer while I've been his masseuse, butler, and flight attendant. Just name the scenario, we've probably done it before."
"Y'all be watching too much p*rn."
"Yeah right. I can send you some of the tapes we've made."
"Y'all film you two having sex?"
"Why are you so shocked?"
"I would be scared to do some sh*t like that. God forbid things go left between you and Shawn, and he leaks them online."
"It doesn't matter. I'll use that as promo for my Onlyfans."
"You are never serious." I laughed, shaking my head.
"He's not crazy enough to do that. He knows better."
"Okay. Do whatever makes y'all happy."
"Did you have something in mind when you were thinking about role playing?"
"I've always wanted to do like a boss and employee type of scenario. He would take me on his desk in his office that is in a skyscraper so everybody can see us through the windows."
"Okay, I didn't know you were a freak like that. You know, since he's an artist, you could do that Titanic scene where Jack draws Rose." I nodded.
"That's not a bad idea."
"When he looks away, you stretch your legs open and catch him off guard. While he's in shock, you slowly walk over to him and take that brush out of his hand as you straddle him."
"Not you planning this whole thing out. I got it." I laughed.
"Girl, just thinking about it has me hot and bothered. Can I watch?"
"No, you creep." I slapped his arm. I started to look at the lingerie. I think black lace is the sexiest, but red and white aren't too far behind.
"I tried." He shrugged.
"That is weird as h*ll. Why would I let you sit there and watch my man?"
"He's fine and all, but my eyes would be on you the whole time."
"Me? Aren't you more attracted to guys?"
"Yeah, but you're the exception. I had a little crush on you back in high school." I was taken aback.
"How come you never told me?"
"I was still confused about my sexuality back then and I didn't want to risk ruining our friendship. But I don't regret anything because you being the first girl I ever liked, allowed me to explore that other side. Plus, I knew that you only had eyes for Dewayne." I was shocked. Before I could even say something, Tae spoke up. "Don't even try to deny it because everybody knew except his blind *ss."
"Well, that's in the past. Only God knows why things turned out the way they did, but I'm glad I decided to give finding love in another place a chance because I found Kyle."
"I'm really happy for you, seriously. Now, I think we should make a pact."
"I don't like the sound of that."
"Hear me out. If we're both single in ten years, you let me hit it."
"I'm done with you."
"You scared that I'll have you hypnotized just from one night? I got Shawn hooked on this d*ck so I understand."
"Tae, you're the bottom so stop lying."
"Oh yeah."
"You're going to have to keep dreaming because me and Kyle are locked in for real."
"Okay. I see you repping your man. I ain't mad at you. Go ahead."
"Thank you. I'm going to go pay for these. You done?"
"Yeah, let's go." As the cashier rang up the items, I noticed this big crystal case that had a tall box inside. It contained this black dildo that was 30 inches long. Tae caught me looking at it.
"You can't handle something like that."
"But you can?"
"I could try."
"Yeah right. I'm just trying to figure out what somebody would do with something that big."
"You would be surprised. It's one of our best sellers. We used to keep them on the floor, but we had to lock them up in the case when customers tried to steal them."
"That's crazy. By the way, you still got that dildo?" Tae asked me.
"I'm so sorry about him."
"I unapologetically have no filter."
"It's fine. Trust me, I've heard worse."
"I never had one in the first place."
"Mhmmm."
"Nothing was wrong with my fingers."
"If you say so."
"Have a nice day."
"Thank you. You too." We each grabbed our bags and made our way outside.
"I almost forgot. My sisters have been begging me to ask you about the next drop. When is it coming out? You released that teaser over a decade ago."
"You're exaggerating. I posted that teaser three weeks ago. I approved everything that came in from production yesterday, so the announcement is coming out next Monday at noon. The release is going to be the week before Black Friday."
"Okay, I see what you're trying to do. You want handle business before your man's birthday."
"Please. Everything doesn't have to revolve around him."
"What did you want to do for him?"
"He just wants to hang out with the crew in a lowkey setting."
"We can have a little cookout in Shawn's backyard or even make it a pool party."
"Just make sure that pool is cleaned because I don't even want to think of the little Shawn's or your sperm swimming around in that thing." I opened my trunk and put the bags inside.
"Girl, shut up. Do we have to buy him a gift?"
"Do I have to buy you a gift when it's your birthday?"
"Of course. You're not crazy."
"Then, you have your answer."
"What do you give a man who has everything?"
"What told you he has everything?"
"That's true. He doesn't have a wife or kids. If he likes you, he better put a ring on it."
"Time will tell."
"Hold on, my Mom is calling me." I instantly started to panic as he went to pick up his phone.
"Hey Momma. I'm currently running some errands. Have I talked to Nicole?" He looked at me and I vehemently shook my head. "Not today. Why? Oh, really. You know what? Let me call her and I'll get back to you. I love you too. Bye."
"Look, I can explain."
"You better because if my Mom finds out I lied, we're both dead."
"I just don't want to go to this dress fitting. I've been dodging it for the longest."
"Nicole, you just need to suck it up. Even if you feel a certain way about her reasons, do your part so she can be happy and this can be over and done with."
"I guess you're right. Please come with me."
"Under one condition."
"Which is?"
"Let me be in the dressing room." I rolled my eyes, ready to cuss him out. "I'm just kidding. I'll come. We can go in your car."
"You're the best." We hopped in my car and I drove to the bridal shop. I've been stressed lately, thinking about so many things like finding a new warehouse. Every time I find one and send an offer, someone always bids more than me. I have a budget and I'm trying so hard not to go over it.
The one I have is outside of town and becoming cramped. I need more space now that my business is expanding. Hopefully I find something soon.
After 20 minutes, we arrived and Tae led us inside.
"Look who I found!"
"I bet y'all was together the whole time."
"I plead the fifth."
"Hi Momma Arlen."
"Hi baby. Why didn't you answer my calls?"
"I'm sorry. I've been busy and contemplating whether I wanted to come."
"I know we both don't like that man, but there's nothing we can do about it at this point."
"You're right."
"Come on. Your Mom is waiting."
"Are we ready to get started?"
"Yes we are. My maid of honor is finally here." I scrunched up my face.
"Okay, we'll start with your dress first as the bride to be. Come with me."
"I saw you make that face. What's going on?"
"Why am I the maid of honor and not you? After all, you're her best friend."
"That's what she wanted. It's been the two of you for so long, so she probably feels like you're her best friend."
"I guess."
"Enough about that, how are things with you and Mr. Laurent?"
"Really good. He's everything to me."
"I can see that. The way you just lit up was beautiful. When are we going to meet him?"
"Very soon." After a couple of minutes, my Mom came out in her white, mermaid dress.
"This is gorgeous."
"What do you think?"
"It's nice." I replied. It was a little plain to me. Knowing my Mom, I surprised it doesn't have crystals or rhinestones.
"Why don't you like it?"
"I do. I said it's looks nice."
"I think you're lying."
"You would know how to tell lies." I mumbled.
"Excuse me?"
"Mom, please drop it. I am trying so hard to be respectful."
"No tell me. What have I lied about?"
"Where is my father?"
"What?"
"Where is my father?" I asked much slower.
"Nicole, you know he's dead. I've been telling you that since you were a child. Why are you bringing this up now?"
"If you lie to me to me one more time, I'm going to walk out of here and you will not see me at your wedding."
"Who has gotten into your mind?"
"My father, the one you said was dead but is actually alive and behind bars as a result of your actions." The room became silent. You could hear a pin drop.
"Nicole, it's not what you think."
"I would love to see how you will twist this story."
"I may have made a mistake in the past, but that does not give you the right to disrespect me. I have moved on and I want you to be happy for me."
"How could I be happy about my mother marrying the same man that played a part in your separation? Because of whatever y'all had, I grew up thinking my father was dead. I didn't have him to teach me how to drive, ride a bike, attend my dancing recitals or see me graduate. Don't you understand how that has affected me over the years?"
"Did you really think it was better for you to know your father was in prison? I would never take you to see him in that environment. He's a criminal for goodness sake!"
"You're unbelievable." I grabbed my bag and stood up from the sofa.
"You're choosing him over me? I did what a good mother should do by not disclosing his real location."
"That may be the case but I would rather not live a life of lies." I made my way out of the shop without looking back. I almost forgot about Tae until he got into the passenger seat. He rubbed my back without speaking as my head laid against the steering wheel.
After a couple of minutes, I put myself together and started the car. I drove back to Pinky's so Tae could get his car and then I went to Kyle's house.
Kyle is not someone who you can easily surprise, so I'm taking him out for a fun night a week before his birthday. I'm keeping his present for his actual birthday.
"Hey Leo. Where's your Dad?" He ran up the stairs and stopped in Kyle's doorway. I walked inside and saw nobody. His bed was made and his shoes sat in front of the foot of the bed.
"Babe." The light was on the closet but he wasn't in there. I moved towards the bathroom to see him standing over the sink with his head down. "Kyle?" I touched his shoulder, causing him to jump.
"I'm sorry."
"You're good love. I didn't even hear you come in."
"It looks like something is bothering you. Are you okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine."
"You sure?"
"I'm good baby. How was your day?"
"It started off pretty good. I met up with Tae at a sex store."
"What did you get?"
"How do you know I bought something?"
"You don't like leaving a shop empty handed."
"I can't help it, but I got some lingerie."
"No handcuffs?"
"I didn't know you were into that."
"You never know until you try."
"I'll keep that in mind for next time."
"So, when will I be blessed to see my angel in this lingerie?"
"Soon. Maybe tonight if you're good."
"Do I get to lather you with baby oil?"
"Yes. I'll be your glistening honey bun."
"Maybe we should stay in and make that a reality."
"I already made plans for you tonight. I promise we can do whatever you want after."
"I'm holding you to that."
"Aye aye captain. Are you ready to go?"
"I just need to put on my shoes. Oh, how did it go at the dress fitting?"
"It was a disaster. Long story short, my Mom and I had a big blowup about my father and I left but we can talk about that later. I don't want us to be late."
"Nicole."
"I'm good. It was bound to happen. Let's go."
"Don't think I'm going to forget."
"Yeah yeah. So how was your doctor's appointment?"
"It was fine. I just lost some weight."
"Really? I don't want to have to start checking up on you all the time, but I know how you get lost in your work and forget to eat."
"I'll do better."
"Promise?"
"Promise."
"There are three rules for tonight. No phones, no opening the door for yourself, and no paying me back. Got it?"
"Yes. You're in control tonight."
"I always am." I winked.
So, the first place I decided to take him to was an escape room. That's been on his bucket list for the longest and a little competition is a good thing. He only won because I let him.
Next, I took him to a private showroom to meet Sean Witherspoon who is known for designing a couple of shoes for Adidas and Nike. I had help from Shawn because he is Shawn's sister's best friend. Kyle got to design a custom pair of Nike Air Max 97s for himself. This was the first show he ever got as a kid and he decided to use Morocco colors since that's where he spent his summers as a kid.
I knew the final spot I was taking him to was going to be his favorite. I put a blindfold on him before I started driving there. Once we reached the venue and handed the car over to the valet, I carefully walked him to the front where he could see the sign once I removed the blindfold.
"Are you ready?"
"Yes."
"You can take it off now." I watched him remove the blindfold and look up at the building. It was the State Farm Arena. Tonight is the Rod Wave concert.
"Are you being serious right now?"
"Yes."
"I remember very well that I couldn't get any tickets and they sold out within five minutes of the website opening. So how did you get them?"
"I know somebody who helped me secure them because I know you really wanted to come."
"What did I ever do to deserve you?"
"Nothing, and that's not all. You can't be his biggest fan without the merch." I revealed the hoodie to him.
"I love you." He kissed me.
"I love you more."
Let me just say, when the concert opened with Green Light, I knew it was going to be a good night. Kyle and I nearly lost our voices because we were singing with our full chests. Ever since Married Next Year came out, I've been listening to it every day. I just love that song.
After the concert, I had to rush to the restroom and I had Kyle hold my stuff. I came back to the hallway to see him signing someone's phone case.
"Okay, I see you Mr. Celebrity." I smiled.
"I'm a real national treasure."
"Yeah right."
"Oh, Dewayne called." He handed me my bag and phone.
"What did he say?"
"I didn't answer."
"Why?"
"I didn't know if you were comfortable with that."
"You let me answer yours all the time, so you can do the same. If I had something to hide, I wouldn't have left it with you." I would only be apprehensive if it was Tae because he might say some crazy sh*t.
"Okay, I now know for next time. You should call him back."
"Right, let me give the ticket to the valet."
"I'll do it."
"I got it."
"I insist. I know you're tired. And I'm driving us home." He walked away before I object. I giggled, shaking my head and pulling out my phone to call Dewayne.
"Hello?"
"Hey. Why do you sound so mad?"
"Why didn't you answer your phone?"
"I was in the restroom. What's wrong?"
"Nothing, just stressed out. Do you know anybody who works with cameras?"
"Yeah, the guy who sent up my security system."
"Can you send me his info?"
"Yeah. You sure you're okay?"
"Yeah. Have a good night."
"You too. I'll check on you tomorrow."
"Thanks." He hung up. I know he's been having issues with Kennedy lately, so that may be what it is.
"The car's here." Kyle came up up from behind me.
"Okay, let's go." He helped me into the car before getting into the driver's seat.
"I hope you enjoyed the night."
"I did. It was different. I've never had someone listen so well to what I want to do and make it happen."
"You do that for me all the time, and I wanted to show my appreciation and make you happy."
"Thank you. I'm going to show you my appreciation when we get home." He grabbed my hand and kissed it.
"I think I like the sound of that. What do you have in mind?"
"It will involve a couple of rounds." He smirked.
"Rounds 1 and 2?"
"And 3 and 4 and 5..."
"Are you trying to turn me into loose Lucy?" I laughed.
"Yo, I can't with you! I love your goofy *ss." He chuckled.
"I love you too."
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